Hungarian Revolution, 1956

Description: Amidst political oppression and economic decline, the uprising begins in October 1956 in the capital Budapest, as a student protest against the communist, Soviet-controlled Hungarian People’s Republic. Winning an initial victory, politician Imre Nagy promises a multiparty, democratic system, and the revolution becomes an international issue. Calling for Hungarian neutrality on November 1, 1956, Nagy appeals to the United Nations to back his cause, however Western powers are reluctant to get involved in the conflict. Soviet forces enter Hungary on November 4 to halt the revolution, and Janos Kadar becomes the new leader of Hungary, backed by the Soviet Union. Nagy is charged with treason and executed in 1958. After this revolution Hungary slowly moves closer to self-governance. Through this collection, it is possible to view archival material from consuls, embassies and army staff, as well as U.N. actions in order to gain insight into this turbulent period of protest and change.